INNOVATION January-February 2018
As the official publication of Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia, Innovation is circulated to almost 34,000 BC-registered professional engineers and geoscientists, other professionals, industry and government representatives, educational institutions and the general public. The magazine is published six times each year on a bi-monthly basis.
En f o r cemen t Ac t i ons | P r oposed By l aw Amendmen t s | P r o f es s i ona l Re l i ance Rev i ew | Gu i de l i nes Upda t ed
INNOVATION JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA
GRENFELL TOWER FIRE: COULD IT HAPPEN IN BC?
DRINKING WATER AND WATERSHED PROTECTION
SUSTAINABLE SHORELINE REHABILITATION
PM40065271
Own a condo? Own a condo? Own a condo?
What You NEED TO KNOW About Strata Deductibles for Condos and Townhouses in British Columbia Many condo owners are unaware of the very high earthquake and water damage deductibles that are becoming very common in Condo/Strata Master Insurance policies. In the event of a claim, this deductible could be shared between all unit owners in the building. Protect yourself: 1) Review your Condo/Strata Master Insurance Policy annually. (This should be provided at your strata corporation’s AGM. If you do not have a copy, contact your property manager.) 2) Contact the experienced insurance advisors at Park Insurance who manage the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Member Insurance Program to ensure that you have adequate coverage. CALL US TODAY 1.800.663.3739 www.park.ca/egbc What You N ED T c bles for Condos and To e ri s ol ia Many cond owners are unaware of the very hig r age deductibles that are becoming very co mon in Condo/Strata Master I s r I vent of a claim, this deductible could be shared betw en all unit owners in the buildi . Pr y lf: 1) Review your Condo/Strata Master Insurance Policy a ll . (This should be provided at your strata corporation’s AGM. If you do not have a copy, contact your property anager.) 2) Contact the experienced insurance advisors at Park Insurance who manage the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Member Insurance Program to ensure that you have adequate coverage. CALL US TODAY 1.800.663.3739 www.park.ca/egbc What Y u NEED TO KNOW About Strata Deductibles for Condos and Townhouses in British Columbia Many condo owners are unaware f the very igh earthquake and wat r damage deductibles that are becoming very common in Condo/Strata Master Insurance policies. In the event of a claim, this deductible could be shared between all unit owners in the building. Protect yourself: 1) Review your Condo/Strata Master Insurance Policy annually. (This should be provided at your strata corporation’s AGM. If you do not have a copy, contact your property manager.) 2) Contact the experienced insurance advisors at Park Insurance who manage the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Member Insurance Program to ensure that you have adequate coverage. CALL US TODAY 1.800.663.3739 www.park.ca/egbc
INNOVAT ION
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 | volume 22 number 1
COVER STORY WIND, WAVES AND A ROADWAY Project draws on diverse disciplines to achieve sustainable solutions to shoreline erosion.
NEWS / DEPARTMENTS
NEWS
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ASSOCIATION 14 COUNCIL REPORT 33 DISCIPLINE AND ENFORCEMENT 38 MEMBERSHIP
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QUESTIONS FROM THE GRENFELL TOWER FIRE The 2017 Grenfell Tower Fire: could it happen in BC?
COMMENT
4 VIEWPOINT 5 LETTERS
CONSULTATION ON BYLAW CHANGES Legal challenge triggers proposed bylaw amendments. 12
OTHER
34 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 38 CLASSIFIEDS 37 DISPLAY ADVERTISERS INDEX
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> CHARTING A COURSE TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE The Regional District of Nanaimo’s
ON THE COVER
Rehabilitated shoreline along Lazo Road, Comox, BC
innovative drinking water and watershed protection program.
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 | volume
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WHAT MAKES FOR GOOD DESIGN MAKES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE
ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC Canada V5C 6N2
Tel: 604.430.8035 Fax: 604.430.8085 Email: info@egbc.ca Internet: egbc.ca Toll free: 1.888.430.8035
When I take my seat at the next council meeting, I will experience something that has been rare in my professional life: 35 percent of the seats at the table will be filled by women. It is an unfortunate reality in our professions that this statistic is unusual and noteworthy. Across the country, women consistently make up no more than 20 percent of engineering graduates, and less as a proportion of practising engineering professionals. In geoscience, the story looks a little different, with just over 40 percent
COUNCIL 2017/2018 President C.J.A. Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA Vice-President K. Tarnai-Lokhorst, P.Eng. Immediate Past President R.P. Stewart, P.Eng.
COUNCILLORS D.W. Barry, P.Eng.; S. Cheema, CPA, CA; S. Hayes, P.Eng.; C.J. Hickson, P.Geo., FGC; K. Laloge, CPA, CA, TEP; L. Mah, P.Eng., FEC; R.B. Nanson, P.Eng.; R.N. Rajapakse, P.Eng.; S.R. Rettie, P.Eng., FEC; L. Spence, P.Eng.; J. Turner, P.Ag. (ret); J.D. Vincent, P.Geo.; T.C. Watson, P.Eng.; D. Wells, JD
Caroline Andrewes, P.Eng., CPA, CMA President president@egbc.ca
ASSOCIATION STAFF A.J. English, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer and Registrar
T.M.Y. Chong, P.Eng. Chief Regulatory Officer and Deputy Registrar M.L. Archibald Director, Communications and Stakeholder Engagement J. Cho, CPA, CGA Director, Finance and Administration D. Gamble Director, Information Systems P.R. Mitchell, P.Eng. Director, Professional Practice, Standards and Development D. Olychick Director, Member Services G.M. Pichler, P.Eng. Director, Registration E. Swartz, LLB Director, Legislation, Ethics and Compliance V. Lai, CPA, CGA Associate Director, Finance and Administration M.A. Rigolo P.Eng., Associate Director, Engineering Admissions L. Steele, P.Geo., Associate Director, Professional Practice
participation of women in undergraduate earth science studies, but with only 23 percent practising as geoscience professionals. At present, women represent about 13 percent of our total membership in BC. While we see positive signals for the future—19 percent of new BC registrants are women, and UBC are on their way to achieving gender parity in undergraduate enrolment—today we continue to experience a legacy of underrepresentation. These statistics will come as no surprise to those in our professions. One only need look around the job site or the office. So, why is this a problem we need to talk about? Among other things, it comes down to performance. Imagine a person completely unlike yourself. Someone who is a different size, gender, age, or lives in a totally different environment. How do you think you would do if you were asked to design something for that person? Odds are you’ll get some things right, and other things really, really wrong. But, if you are part of a diverse team, where groupthink is reduced, and your ideas are challenged, it is very likely that in less time you will develop something better than you could do on your own. The same principle holds in the boardroom; research demonstrates improved governance in companies with gender diverse boards. The advantages of diverse teams are easy to recognize, and increasingly organizations across the country are developing programs and opportunities to engage diverse populations. On Council we have a Member Champion at the table—a Councillor who speaks to issues as a member, rather than an organizational steward—and now we also have a 30-by-30 Champion. Our 30-by-30 Champion considers issues from the perspective of how a policy might help or hinder the engagement of women in the professions as we work towards our national goal of increasing the proportion of newly licensed engineers who are women to 30 percent by the year 2030. Additionally, we are considering how to share tools and best practices for engaging women with our members and their employers. And, while there remain challenges, moving towards more equal representation benefits us all and is something we should continue to strive for. Even the smallest movement can ripple outward and become a wave.
Melinda Lau, Managing Editor
EDITORIAL BOARD M.I.H. Bhuiyan, P.Eng.; J. Bracho, P.Eng.; E.A. Brown, P.Eng.; K.C. Chan, P.Eng., CPA; T. George, P.Eng.; H. Ghalibafian, P.Eng.; G. Grill, P.Eng.; R. Ord, P.Eng.; A.M. Westin, GIT; M.J. Zieleman, EIT
Advertising material must reach the publication by the first day of the first month (e.g., May 1 for the May/June issue), or by the first business day immediately preceding the first day of the first month. Advertising Contact: Gillian Cobban Tel: 604.929.6733 Email: advertising@egbc.ca
Design/Production: Mary Montica Poole–re:fresh design Printed in Canada by Mitchell Press Ltd on recycled paper
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Innovation is published six times a year by Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia. As the official publication of the association, Innovation is circulated to members of the engineering and geoscience professions, architects, contractors and industry executives. The views expressed in any article contained herein do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Council or membership of this association. Submission Guidelines: Innovation encourages unsolicited articles and photos. By submitting material to Innovation , you grant Engineers and Geoscientists BC a royalty-free, worldwide licence to publish the material; and you warrant that you have the authority to grant such rights and have obtained waivers of all associated moral rights. Innovation reserves the right to edit material for length, clarity and conformity with our editorial guidelines (egbc.ca/innovation-editorial) and is under no obligation to publish any or all submissions or any portion thereof, including credits. All material is copyright. Please contact the Managing Editor for reprint permission.
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US Postmaster: Innovation (ISSN 1206-3622) is published bimonthly for $25.00 per year by Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia, c/o US Agent-Transborder Mail, 4708 Caldwell Rd E, Edgewood, WA 98372-9221. Periodicals postage paid at Puyallup, WA, and at additional mailing offices, US PO #007-927. POSTMASTER send address changes (covers only) to Innovation , c/o Transborder Mail, PO Box 6016, Federal Way, WA 98063-6016.
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L E T T E R S
Letters to the editor containing your views on topics of interest are encouraged. Opinions expressed in letters are not necessarily endorsed by Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Letters should be 300 words or less and can be emailed to innovation@egbc.ca. Find information at egbc.ca/Submitting-to-Innovation.
SKILLS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED How’s your retirement going? Are you missing the involvement in a worthwhile project? Even if you are not retired, do you have spare time to help needy clients? Back in 1998, brothers Neil Griggs and Dr. Bill Griggs asked themselves those questions and decided to act. They founded Builders Without Borders (BWB) Foundation, a Vancouver-based registered charity. Initially the aim was to create a forum where retirees with construction experience could contribute worldwide to those most in need, particularly in the rebuilding of shelter and community facilities after natural disasters.
is also being considered for managing a housing project in Bella Bella. Since its inception, Builders Without Borders has participated in over 50 projects in over 12 countries including Turkey, India, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Algeria, Ghana, Laos, India, the Philippines, Haiti, Nepal, and Canada. You can see more of this work at builderswithoutborders.com or email me at bboone2004@hotmail.com to talk about joining our ranks. — Brian Boone, P.Eng. Vancouver, BC
In the intervening years, BWB has grown and not only expanded its expertise and services, but also now includes various members of both the retired and working communities. We are engineers of all disciplines, architects, planners, and retired professionals with a lifetime of learned skills. BWB is currently working on a $2 million construction trade school in Port au Prince, Haiti, a house re-building programme in Nepal after the country was struck by the 2015 earthquake, and a couple of women and children-serving transition facility projects for Chimo Community Services in Richmond. BWB
DECLARE YOUR CPD HOURS FOR 2017 Have you declared your professional development hours? Members are asked to indicate whether they have met the requirements of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Guideline for the 2017 calendar year. If you did not complete this step during your 2018 membership renewal either by hard copy form or online, you can do so at any time by logging into your account on the Engineers and Geoscientists BC website. Once you have logged into your account, navigate to “Manage Professional Development,” then “Declare your Professional Development Compliance.” There are two steps for declaring your CPD compliance. You will be asked to check one of the options for your declaration, then asked to enter the total number of hours you would like to declare. Supporting documentation such as receipts or certificates, or activity reports do not need to be submitted, but should be kept on file. Members who have declared compliance with the CPD Guideline are recognized as “Declared CPD compliant” in the public member directory on the association’s website. For more imformation, contact cpd@egbc.ca or call 1.888.430.8035
MEG joins Tetra Tech Tetra Tech is pleased to announce that MEG Consulting
Limited has joined the Tetra Tech family. MEG is a highly specialized geotechnical and marine engineering firm that has
grown under the leadership of John Sully and Ender Parra with strong technical support from Lothar Chan and Gordon Fung. Over the past 20 years, MEG has built a reputation for leading with technical excellence and delivering client-focused solutions to complex challenges as a worldwide provider to the transportation and infrastructure sector, oil and gas developments, and the mining sector for both onshore and offshore projects. Tetra Tech is a leading consulting engineering firm with over 16,000 staff located in more than 400 offices worldwide to serve our clients’ most complex needs. The geotechnical and marine engineering expertise that MEG brings to Tetra Tech enhances our ability to serve clients with the most complex and challenging projects locally and worldwide.
tetratech.com/canada
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SURVEY OF STEM PROFESSIONALS AIMS TO DRIVE CHANGE The Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) has received Federal funding for a three-year project to uncover and address barriers that contribute to the under- representation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). OSPE is seeking the participation of STEM professionals in a research survey as a part of this project. The Breaking Barriers for Women in STEM project is funded by the Status of Women, and spearheaded by OSPE in partnership with Engineers Canada and others. The overall goal is to identify the systemic barriers women face and to develop promising practices and policy recommendations to break these barriers down. If you currently work or have previously worked in a STEM field, the Breaking Barriers for
The Women in Engineering and Geoscience Division (formally DAWEG) is looking to fill several key positions on its executive. With its re-brand, this is an exciting and unique opportunity to re-position the division for the future as it looks to meet the needs of current and future division members. The Women in Engineering and Geoscience Division promotes, enhances and facilitates Women project is looking for your participation in their survey. The purpose of the survey is to gather insights on any barriers that contribute to the underrepresentation of women in STEM, and what can be done to support, encourage and retain more women in STEM careers. Input from all genders is welcome as the research seeks to explore similarities and differences in terms of experiences and perspectives. To access the survey, visit the project website for Breaking Barriers for Women in STEM at www.letsbreakbarriers.ca.
WOMEN IN ENGINEERING AND GEOSCIENCE DIVISION SEEKING VOLUNTEERS Looking for a way to contribute to the recruitment and retention of women in engineering and geoscience? Consider volunteering with the Women in Engineering and Geoscience Division.
Associated announces staff
Martin Jobke, President of the Associated Engineering group of companies, is pleased to announce the promotion of the following staff: Leslie Mihalik, M.S., MBA, P.E., P.Eng. has accepted the role of General Manager of Associated Engineering’s BC and Northern operation. Leslie has 30 years of experience specializing in design, construction, and project management of transportation projects. His diverse experience includes highways, bridges, buildings, drainage structures, and industrial facilities. He has worked on projects across Canada, South Africa, and in the Caribbean. Having worked extensively in the North, Leslie has expertise in the design and construction of infrastructure and transportation projects in cold regions. Leslie’s experience includes traditional design-bid-build, as well as alternative delivery projects.
opportunities for women to succeed in engineering and geoscience and works to identify ways to increase the recruitment and retention of women in the professions. It accomplishes this by providing a forum for professionals to identify, examine, discuss, or resolve issues. If you are a current member of Engineers and Geoscientists BC and are interested in joining the Women in Engineering and Geoscience Division executive, apply today at egbc.ca/volunteer. Volunteering with an Engineers and Geoscientists BC Division allows you to gain an understanding of board governance, build your network with other professionals, and improve your leadership and organizational skills, while contributing to issues that are important to you.
Katrin Habel, Dr. sc. techn, P.Eng. has been appointed Manager, Bridge Rehabilitation. Katrin is a Senior Bridge
Shane Cook, M.A.Sc., P.Eng. has been appointed Division Manager, Transportation. Shane is a Senior Structural Engineer with 18 years of experience in structural and
Engineer with over 15 years of experience in designing and evaluating steel and concrete bridges. Her experience includes project management design, rehabilitation, strengthening, assessments, and load ratings of bridges, retaining walls, culverts and related structures.
seismic design. His expertise includes the assessment, retrofit, and rehabilitation of bridge structures. He has been involved with numerous bridge retrofit and rehabilitation projects in Metro Vancouver.
www.ae.ca
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DO YOU QUALIFY FOR THE GEOSCIENTISTS CANADA FELLOWSHIP?
The Geoscientists Canada Fellowship recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to the profession of geoscience. Engineers and Geoscientists BC would like to identify all BC members who qualify for this honour. Geoscientists Canada Fellowships may be conferred upon individuals who have given noteworthy service in one of six categories, one of which is to have served the geoscience profession in a volunteer capacity for at least 10 years. The total length of service can be a combination of service on Geoscientists Canada boards and committees and/or service as a volunteer for a Geoscientists Canada constituent member, e.g., Engineers and Geoscientists BC, APEGA, etc. If you have served the geoscience profession as described for at least 10 years, please visit egbc.ca/Geoscientists- Canada-Fellowship for more information on how to apply for the fellowship. Submissions must be received by Tuesday, February 20, 2018. To view a list of those who have already received the Geoscientists Canada Fellowship, please visit the Geoscientists Canada website at geoscientistscanada.ca.
Geoscientists and non-geoscientists upon whom this honour is bestowed will receive a certificate and a pin, and are awarded the privilege of the use of the designation ‘Fellow of Geoscientists Canada – FGC’ or ‘Honorary Geoscientists Canada Fellow – FGC (Hon.)’. Geoscientists Canada is the national organization of the 10 provincial and territorial associations that regulate the practice of geoscience in Canada, which includes Engineers and Geoscientists BC.
DISCOUNT ON NSPE ONLINE COURSES FOR CANADIAN ENGINEERS Thanks to a recent agreement signed by Engineers Canada, Canadian professional engineers can now receive a 50 percent discount when they register for any online course offered by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). NSPE represents professional engineers in the United States and has an online catalogue of high-quality live and on-demand webinars for engineers that cover a wide range of topics, including engineering ethics, business and organizational development, risk management, professional and personal development, and a variety of technical issues. The full catalogue of webinars is available on the NSPE website: www.nspe.org/resources/ pe-institute. Use discount code CAN50 to register at the reduced rate. Engineers Canada is the national association of provincial and territorial regulatory bodies for engineering, including Engineers and Geoscientists BC.
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NOW RECRUITING MEMBERS FOR 2018/2019 COUNCIL British Columbia’s engineers and
INTERESTED IN RUNNING FOR OFFICE? HERE’S WHAT THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE IS LOOKING FOR: Nominees for councillor must be members or licensees (P.Eng., P.Geo., Eng.L., Geo.L.) in good standing. Of candidates referred directly to the Nominating Committee, candidates for the office of president must have previously served on Council for at least two years, and candidates for the office of vice president must have served one year. Prior experience on Council is not required for write-in candidates. DESIRABLE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE • Financial fluency, such as relating to financial statements, cash flow, budgeting, financial planning, investing, and risk management • Familiarity with governance structures of corporations or large organizations • A minimum of five years of professional practice as an Engineers and Geoscientists BC member • Leadership roles, including strategic thinking and public speaking. Experience with service on boards of companies or voluntary, professional or community organizations. For more detailed information on the Nominating Committee’s candidate criteria, see egbc.ca/ Nominations-2018-2019.
Each year, members have the opportunity to elect a president, vice president, and a minimum of five councillors. Candidates may be nominated either by the Nominating Committee or as a write-in candidate with the support of 25 members. The election will be held during September and October 2018. Those elected will take office at the Annual General Meeting on October 20, 2018. Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Nominating Committee will meet from December 2017 to April 2018 to select a list of candidates. These nominees will be selected based on their qualifications, experience and expertise. Members are encouraged to submit referrals or expressions of interest to this committee for consideration. To do so, contact Nominating Committee Chair, Bob Stewart, P.Eng., at pastpresident@ egbc.ca, by Thursday, February 22, 2018 . Members may also submit nominations of candidates for election, with the support of 25 members in good standing, directly to the Registrar. This requires a nomination form signed by the members making the nomination and the written consent of the nominee. The deadline for submitting nomination forms is Wednesday, June 27, 2018. Detailed information, including nomination forms and Nominating
geoscientists play an essential role in the province. Through the nomination process, we are seeking visionary individuals to provide strong leadership for Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Engineers and Geoscientists BC is inviting members who wish to run in the fall 2018 Council election to contact the association’s Nominating Committee to express their interest in becoming a candidate. WHY GET INVOLVED? Engineers and geoscientists enjoy the privilege of self-regulation. This means they are responsible for determining and maintaining the standards of admission and practice for their professions. As an organization, Engineers and Geoscientists BC relies on members’ participation to carry out our regulatory functions. Members of the association’s Council provide leadership and strategic direction to Engineers and Geoscientists BC, establishing its priorities and policies under provincial legislation, the Engineers and Geoscientists Act . Professional engineers, professional geoscientists and licensees in good standing are eligible for office. Councillors are generally elected for a two-year term. The president and vice president are elected for a one-year term. OUR PROCESS Engineers and Geoscientists BC is governed by a council of elected members and government appointees.
Committee candidate criteria, can be found online at egbc.ca/ Nominations-2018-2019 .
2018 NOMINATING COMMITTEE The Nominating Committee ensures that a list of nominees is put forward for election in consideration of criteria vital to strong and balanced leadership of the association. This includes management and professional practice experience, financial fluency, diversity, and more. The Nominating Committee comprises eight professional members or licensees representing Engineers and Geoscientists BC regional branches and five professional members or licensees appointed by Council. The committee is chaired by the current past president. For more information about the Nominating Committee, visit egbc.ca/Nominations-2018-2019.
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CELEBRATING BC ENGINEERING AND GEOSCIENCE LEADERS Award Nominations are Now Open
Please direct questions about the Mentor of the Year Award to Amit Plaha, Mentoring Program Coordinator, aplaha@egbc.ca or 604.412.4885. FOREST ENGINEERING AWARD OF EXCELLENCE NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGHOUT THE YEAR The Forest Engineering Award of Excellence, sponsored jointly by Engineers and Geoscientists BC and the Association of BC Forest Professionals (ABCFP), recognizes excellence, cooperation and leadership in forest engineering. The award is presented annually and alternates between associations. For detailed information about nomination procedures, terms of reference, and eligibility, visit egbc.ca/ For-Members/Awards. Questions about the association’s awards program can be directed to Laurel Buss, Communications Officer, lbuss@egbc.ca or 604.412.6052.
both large and small. The Sustainability Award is open to any project that has demonstrated a commitment to, and understanding of, the concept of sustainability or has applied one or more of the Sustainability Guidelines.
Nominations are now being accepted for the association’s President’s Awards, Environmental Award, Sustainability Award, and Mentor of the Year Award. The awards will be presented in Vancouver, BC, at our 2018 Annual Conference in October. PRESIDENT’S AWARDS NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018 Our President’s Awards are British Columbia’s top honours for professional engineers, professional geoscientists and licensees. The awards recognize the exemplary and outstanding professional, technical, and community contributions of Engineers and Geoscientists BC members and allow the association to showcase the professions to the public.
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL FRIDAY, MARCH 16, 2018 The Division of Environmental
Professionals encourages submissions for the Environmental Award highlighting engineers and geoscientists’ roles in responsible environmental management, environmental protection, and sustainable development. MENTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018 Our Mentor of the Year Award recognizes excellence among mentors in BC’s engineering and geoscience community. Nominees must be an active mentor in the association’s Mentoring Program.
SUSTAINABILITY AWARD NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL FRIDAY, MARCH 16, 2018
The Sustainability Committee welcomes nominations from sustainable projects
The recipients of the 2017 President’s Awards: Dr. Brian Guy, P.Geo. , Shanna Knights, P.Eng. , Gary Schubak, P.Eng. , Elise Chan, P.Eng. , Dr. Mina Hoorfar, P.Eng. , Tijana Smiljanic, P.Eng. , Kevin Turner, P.Eng., FEC , and Robert Allan, P.Eng.
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QUALITY MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES UPDATED Updated versions of Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s six quality management guidelines have recently been published and are now available on the association’s website. No new technical requirements have been introduced in this most recent suite of updates, but some revisions and additions have been made to the Quality Management Guidelines – Use of Seal to provide further clarification on a number of topics. Version 2.0 supersedes Version 1.2 of the Quality
applied biology, and professional forestry. The aim of the audit was to assess the enabling legislation and performance of professional associations that govern QPs. Engineers and Geoscientists BC participated in the audit on November 20, 2017, and provided a significant amount of information on the ways in which it utilizes proactive and reactive regulatory programs to ensure engineering and geoscience is conducted safely and to high standards. To date, the provincial government has requested the participation of members of the professional associations in a survey on professional reliance distributed to Engineers and Geoscientists BC members working in the resource sector. In the coming months, the provincial government has indicated that it will offer a webinar to members of each professional association. Public feedback is also being sought on this issue through the provincial government’s EngageBC website, engage.gov.bc.ca/ professionalreliance. As a part of this consultation process, Engineers and Geoscientists BC has provided a public statement (See opposite page). As the review continues, Engineers and Geoscientists BC looks forward to working with government to contribute to a stronger professional reliance system, and members are encouraged to participate in consultation opportunities as they arise. A final report is expected to be completed by spring 2018. 3.6 How to Seal • 3.6.4.2 Electronic Seals and Digital Certificates • 3.6.8.1 Non-ink Signatures • 3.6.9.3 Unacceptable Seals Appendix A: When to Apply Seals (re-ordered, additional scenarios added) The following guidelines were revised to align formatting for greater cohesiveness as a whole, and for consistency with the Quality Management Guidelines – Use of Seal : • Direct Supervision (v.1.3 ) • Documented Checks of Engineering and Geoscience Work (v1.3) • Documented Independent Review of Structural Designs (v1.4) • Documented Field Reviews During Implementation or Construction (v1.3) • Retention of Project Documentation (v1.3) The quality management guidelines are available in the Practice Resources section of the association’s website at egbc.ca/Quality- Management-Guidelines.
Management Guidelines – Use of Seal . Updates in this latest version include additions and revisions on a number of topics: 3.2 Which Documents Require Sealing • 3.2.1.3 General
• 3.2.4.1 CADD Drawing Files • 3.2.5.1 Bound Documents • 3.2.6.1 Reviewed Documents • 3.2.7.2 Copies of Originally Sealed Documents • 3.2.9.1 Standard Drawings • 3.2.10 Emails • 3.2.12 Design-build Drawings/Documents
ASSOCIATIONS AUDITED IN PROFESSIONAL RELIANCE REVIEW On October 3, the provincial government announced it would be undertaking a review of the Province’s professional reliance model to ensure that the highest professional, technical and ethical standards are being applied to resource management in BC. The review will assess the current legislation governing
qualified professionals (QPs) in the natural resource sector upon whose professional recommendations the government relies, as well as the role their professional associations play in upholding the public interest. It will also look to identify best practices with respect to QPs doing work under the professional reliance model, and make recommendations regarding resource decisions made by government, conditions governing the involvement of QPs in those decisions, and the appropriate level of government oversight to assure the public their interests are protected. Following the announcement, Engineers and Geoscientists BC issued a statement providing its full support of the review. “As a regulatory body, we take our duty to protect the public very seriously,” said Ann English, P.Eng., CEO and Registrar. “We welcome any opportunities to strengthen or add to the regulatory tools we already have in place.” The review began with an audit of five professional associations, including Engineers and Geoscientists BC and the associations governing agrology, applied science technology,
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PUBLIC STATEMENT
December 18, 2017
standards, revising legislation impacting the application of professional reliance, addressing issues related to government oversight and the use of professionals, and documentation of professional practice. We have also provided extensive information on ways in which the professional reliance model can be improved as part of this review. This includes clarifying roles and expectations of all parties working within the model, strengthening the regulation of Qualified Professionals, increasing government oversight, and implementing common practice guidelines. We look forward to continuing to contribute to this important discussion and encourage our members to provide their input to this process as well. We take very seriously our obligation to the public and our responsibility to ensure that all engineering and geoscience work is carried out safely and ethically. We are dedicated to safety, ongoing professional development, and professional accountability and we welcome any opportunity to build on amendments to our 100-year-old legislation that would strengthen our ability to act as a strong regulator, and through the coming year we will continue to review and consider ways we can enhance our ability to protect the public interest. In addition, we have an established task force that is currently evaluating options for the potential regulation of engineering and geoscience organizations in BC as a means to provide greater public protection. We believe these and other continuous improvement efforts will support and enhance the role we play within the professional reliance model and as a professional regulator serving the people of BC. We look forward to working with government and our professional colleagues to advance this review and we remain dedicated to serving the interests of all British Columbians for the next 100 years with integrity, accountability, and innovation. the regulatory tools we already have in place. To that end, we have previously identified several
Engineers and Geoscientists BC is pleased to be contributing to government’s review of the professional reliance model. As the regulator for professional engineering and geoscience, we are dedicated to upholding public safety, high standards, and robust professional practice, and we want to ensure our voice is heard in this process. Professional reliance is the practice of relying upon the decisions and advice of professionals who accept responsibility and are held accountable for the decisions they make and the advice they give. We see this review as an important opportunity to assess how the professional reliance model is applied under a variety of legislation in the natural resource sector to ensure it continues to work as intended. Under provincial law, it is the role of Engineers and Geoscientists BC to establish, maintain, and enforce standards of qualification and practice for our members. We utilize proactive and reactive regulatory programs to ensure engineering and geoscience is conducted safely and ethically. From qualification assessment to practice guidance and oversight, to undertaking disciplinary processes when our standards are not met, we continue to develop vigorous regulatory solutions that serve to protect British Columbians. Within the professional reliance model, we work with our professionals, as well as relevant authorities and stakeholders, to communicate the standards of practice members should follow when carrying out their professional obligations. This is accomplished, in part, through the creation of quality management and professional practice guidelines, in areas such as flood hazard assessment, terrain stability, forest roads and bridges, riparian area assessments, dam safety reviews, and onsite sewerage. Over the years, we have been proactive in identifying and submitting recommendations for improvements to the professional reliance model and have collaborated with other professions to comment on issues related to the natural resource sector—including utilizing consistent
Ann English, P.Eng. CEO and Registrar
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LEGAL CHALLENGE TRIGGERS PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS For many years, Engineers and Geoscientists BC has awarded life memberships under the association’s Bylaw 10 (c.1). The bylaw entitles members to apply for life membership if they are 70 years of age, have been practising for 35 years or more, and have been a member in good standing for 20 years or more. In February 2017, the association was the subject of a legal challenge that this bylaw is discriminatory based on age, due to the requirement for members to be 70 years of age in order to qualify. The requirement for 35 years of membership may also constitute indirect age discrimination. Under the BC Human Rights Code , membership associations such as Engineers and Geoscientists BC are prohibited from discriminating against individuals based on age. On this basis, Council decided to cease exercising its
Council is recommending changes to this bylaw to better meet public expectations by clearly indicating if a member does not have practice rights by utilizing a restricted title, such as P.Eng. (Non-Practising). This aligns with the practices of several other professions that utilize restricted titles for those who are no longer practising the profession—often accompanied by a reduced membership fee. BYLAW 10 (C.1) – LIFE MEMBERSHIP OR LICENSURE Bylaw 10 (c.1) entitles members to apply for life membership if they are 70 years of age, have been practising for 35 years or more, have been a member in good standing for 20 years or more, and are retired from all gainful employment. The qualification language in the current Life Member Bylaw must be repealed as it contravenes the BC Human Rights Code. The proposed amendments would also introduce new requirements for members who received life membership under the current bylaw (between January 1, 1998 and June 16, 2017). Since current life members must be retired from all gainful employment, and are therefore non-practising, amendments have been proposed that align with the proposed changes to Bylaw 10 (c) – Non-Practising Member. These include a requirement to use a restricted title, and to make an annual commitment to Council not to engage in the practice of professional engineering or professional geoscience. BYLAW 10 (C.2) – HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP OR LICENSURE AND BYLAW 10 (D) – HONORARY MEMBERSHIP These bylaws govern the recognition of members who have served as president of the association or who have made “outstanding contributions” to the professions. Honorary life membership under Bylaw 10 (c.2) is granted to an individual who has served as president of the association or who has made outstanding contributions to the professions, and awards all membership privileges without payment of annual fees, including granting practice rights for life. Honorary membership under Bylaw 10 (d) is granted to non-members who have made outstanding contributions to the professions, and grants honorary membership in perpetuity without any other membership rights or privileges (such as voting, practice rights). As both bylaws refer to “outstanding contributions,” it is proposed that the process for recognizing these contributions be streamlined through one bylaw, rather than two. In addition, it would be beneficial to separate special recognition from the granting of practice rights so that these two membership elements can be managed independently, as well as to provide Council with the authority to revoke honorary membership if required.
discretion to offer life membership effective June 16, 2017. Council also directed a review of the bylaw that governs this process, as well as related bylaws that govern non-practising members, honorary life membership and licensure, and honorary membership. We are currently seeking member input on a suite of amendments to these bylaws that will enhance how we perform our regulatory duties. Council approved several ‘solutions principles’ that the proposed amendments should adhere to, including: the duty to protect the public interest; compliance with the Engineers and Geoscientists Act , bylaws and other legislation; fiscal responsibility; inclusivity, consistency, and fairness of application; and consideration of feedback from stakeholder consultation. WHAT AMENDMENTS ARE PROPOSED? Council is proposing four bylaws for amendment: 1. Bylaw 10 (c) – Non-practising member 2. Bylaw 10 (c.1) – Life membership or licensure 3. Bylaw 10 (c.2) – Honorary life membership or licensure 4. Bylaw 10 (d) – Honorary membership
DUE TO LENGTH, DETAILED AMENDMENTS TO EACH OF THE BYLAWS UNDER REVIEW COULD NOT BE INCLUDED HERE.
TO SEE THE DETAILED AMENDMENTS, VISIT egbc.ca/Life-Member-Bylaw-Consultation.
BYLAW 10 (C) – NON-PRACTISING MEMBER Currently, members may elect to move to non-practising status, if they are no longer practising engineering or geoscience, but wish to remain members of the association. Members who select this grade of membership do not retain practice rights, but retain all other membership privileges and may continue to use the unrestricted designations of P.Eng., P.Geo., Eng.L., and Geo.L.
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BYLAW AMENDMENTS AT A GLANCE • Rescind bylaw elements that contravene the BC Human Rights Code • Better meet public expectations by clearly indicating if a member does not have practice rights • Clarify obligations for non-practising members • Streamline the process for recognizing outstanding contributions with honourary membership • Separate honourary recognition from the granting of practice rights CONSULTATION AND FEEDBACK Council approved a consultation plan for these bylaws in September 2017 in alignment with its Consultation Policy, which outlines the process for member and stakeholder engagement on proposed bylaw changes. Members directly impacted by Council’s decision to no longer award life membership were notified in the summer and asked to provide their input via survey. Several members also participated in a series of focus groups and provided valuable feedback on the proposed bylaw amendments. All members of the associationwere recently invited to participate in a survey on each bylaw and its associated amendments. On February 28, a webinar will be offered to enable members to learn more about the bylaw amendments, offer feedback, and have their questions answered. For more information, or to register for the webinar, please visit our website at egbc.ca/Life-Member-Bylaw-Consultation . NEXT STEPS Stakeholder consultation will continue throughout the winter, and will be considered by Council at their April meeting, along with any recommendations for changes to the proposed bylaw amendments. Council will then decide whether to approve the bylaws for member ratification, or seek additional input. The proposed bylaws will be presented to members for ratification in autumn, in conjunction with the Council election. Amendments to Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s bylaws require at least two-thirds (66.7 percent) support of voting members in order to pass. MORE INFORMATION Background information, consultation opportunities and results, more detailed information on the bylaws, and the full text of the proposed amendments are available online at egbc.ca/Life-Member-Bylaw-Consultation .
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PRACTICE OF PUBLISHING VOTER TURNOUT BY BRANCH TO CONTINUE Council approved the publication of voter turnout by branch as an ongoing part of the association’s election process. This practice was received positively by the membership as a part
N O V E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 7 Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Council of elected members and government representatives meets throughout the year to conduct the business of association governance. The following are the highlights of the November 24, 2017, meeting.
of the 2017/2018 Council Election process. ENGAGING WITH ASSOCIATION PAST PRESIDENTS
2017 AGM MOTIONS Council considered the motions put forward at the
Council considered past practices for engaging and involving the association’s past presidents. Council will continue to host an annual dinner with past presidents and exercise the option to arrange separate meetings when issues arise that require further engagement with this key group of stakeholders. UPDATE ON ENG.L. TO P.ENG. BRIDGING PILOT PROGRAM Council received an update on the Engineering Licensee to Professional Engineer Pilot Bridging Program. To date, 13 engineering licensees have applied to the bridging program since its launch in 2016. ENFORCEMENT, INVESTIGATION, AND DISCIPLINE UPDATE Council received updates on the association’s enforcement, investigation and discipline activities to date this fiscal year. During the reporting period, 37 new enforcement files were opened, and 21 files were closed. The number of new file openings during the reporting period was relatively high. This increase in new file openings is in part due to increased efforts undertaken by the association to proactively identify enforcement targets. For the period between July 1 and October 31, 2017, the association received 17 complaint files regarding engineering or geoscience professionals. During this period, the Discipline Committee received six files from the Investigation Committee. CLIMATE CHANGE SURVEY: RESULTS AND NEXT STEPS Council received an update on the Climate Change Survey results and their impact on the future activities of the association’s Climate Change Advisory Group. UPDATE ON ACCREDITATION BOARD ACTIVITIES Council received an update on Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) activities. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AUTHORITY TO REVIEW ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BC Council directed staff engage the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) of the United Kingdom to undertake an audit of the Engineers and Geoscientists Act to identify any gaps or barriers to the association functioning as an effective regulator, and the association’s governance model to determine strengths and weaknesses in regards to the association’s ability to fulfill its duties under the Act . A review of compliance and performance is to follow once staff resources are available.
association’s annual general meeting in October and approved a plan of action to address the successful motions at future Council meetings, which included seeking recommendations from association committees and directing staff to review and report on a number of practices. See the full list of AGM motions and follow-up actions in the November 24, 2017, council summary on our website at egbc.ca/About/Our-Team/ Council/Council-Schedule-and-Agendas/. BUDGET GUIDELINES AND EXPENSE POLICY APPROVED Council approved guidelines for the creation of the association’s 2018/2019 budget and amended the Expense Reimbursement Policy. This budget will be the second in a three-year budgeting cycle that aligns with the 2017-2020 Strategic Plan. The budget guidelines emphasize Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s commitment to sustainable financial management. SEISMIC DESIGN OF BRIDGES GUIDELINE APPROVED Engineers and Geoscientists BC continues to proactively regulate professional engineering and professional geoscience in BC through the development of practice guidance resources. Council approved the Professional Practice Guidelines – Performance Based Seismic Design of Bridges in BC for final editorial and legal review prior to publication. Once published, these guidelines will provide engineering professionals with more information on how to apply the requirements of the CAN/CSA-S6-14 Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code and BC Ministry of Transportation Supplement to their work. REVISED LETTERS OF ASSURANCE ENDORSED FOR CITY OF VANCOUVER The City of Vancouver is taking revised Letters of Assurance to City Council for approval. The revisions made to the Vancouver Building Bylaw (VBBL) Letters of Assurance are specific to addressing the new energy requirements in the VBBL. Letters of Assurance require formal endorsement by Engineers and Geoscientists BC and the Architectural Institute of BC. At the meeting, Council endorsed the revised VBBL Letters of Assurance.
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